In the late 1970s, a famous band known as The Gatlin Brothers (who also penned Houston featured in a previous Skycap News article) wrote and performed a now-classic song called, “All the Gold in California.” In the song, they metaphorically referred to the Gold Rush. Putting it in modern-day terms. Referring to those who sought stardom as people trying “to be a hero who ends up a zero.” But the song was also inspired by the original California Gold Rush of the 1840s. Actually, there were 6 major gold rushes. California was the site of at least one or two of them. So that’s why it is the perfect site to relive and revisit the history of the California Gold Rush.
California Historic Gold Rush Sites
The Yosemite Mines and Family Lodging offer a number of accommodations for eager miners or tourists who want to take in the culture of this modern-day gold mining town! Moreover, Yosemite Mines offers some of the best travel accommodations available near Yosemite National park. Featuring all types of lodging, such as cabins, RVs, and tent sites. You can relax and enjoy your mining adventures with a good night’s sleep the night before at one of these great locations.
Gem of the Southern Mines
Columbia, California is a town located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada in Tuolumne County, California. It was originally founded in the year 1850. This dating makes it especially close to the events that unfolded during the original California Gold Rush. Consequently, Columbia was called by many, Gem of the Southern Mines. Its central district lies within the Columbia State Historic Park and is dedicated to the 19th century, Gold Rush. The U.S. Historic district is a National Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Things to Do in Columbia, California
One adventure you can look into in Columbia is the Hidden Treasure Gold Mine. Carrying on the tradition of the original 19th Century Gold Rush, the Matelot Gulch Mine Supply Store carries every sort of mining supplies you might need. Including kitchenware, silver, relics, and other equipment to make your mining experience a good one. They also offer some classes on how to pan for gold.
The Comeback of Gold Mining
In case you haven’t noticed, the NEW gold rush fever is on! Several TV network programs feature long-bearded prospectors in 2-week unlaundered clothing panning for gold, silver, and many other minerals and stones. Each hoping to find that big claim. You can do the same when you visit Columbia, by learning the skills ancient miners learned long ago. But if you’re not up to actual mining and prospecting yourself, you may enjoy just taking in the scenery and culture that brings up the ghosts from the past, in this interesting and mysterious vacation getaway.
“Ride, boldly ride,” the Shade replied, “if seek for El Dorado.”
–Edgar Allan Poe
